The West Loop, a culinary hotspot in Chicago, boasts more than just Michelin-starred restaurants. Hidden amongst the upscale eateries are some truly phenomenal french fry purveyors. This guide dives deep into the crispy, salty, and sometimes gourmet world of West Loop fries, helping you find your perfect potato perfection. We've tasted, ranked, and reviewed to bring you the top 17. Get ready for a fry-tastic adventure!
Discovering Fry Heaven: Criteria for Our Top Spots
Selecting the best french fries isn't just about blindly indulging; it's a meticulous process. We considered several crucial factors:
- Potato Quality: The foundation of any great fry. We favored fries made with high-quality potatoes, resulting in a superior texture and flavor.
- Cutting Style: From thick-cut to shoestring, the cut significantly impacts the fry's texture and crispiness.
- Cooking Method: Double-frying? Air-frying? Each method contributes a unique taste and texture.
- Seasoning and Sauces: The perfect seasoning can elevate a good fry to greatness. We considered creativity and flavor profiles.
- Overall Experience: The fries themselves are paramount, but the overall dining experience also contributes to the ranking.
The Top 17 French Fry Destinations in the West Loop: A Deep Dive
This list isn't ranked in order, as each establishment offers a unique fry experience. Instead, we've categorized them for easier navigation.
Classic & Comforting
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Small Cheval: Known for their legendary burgers, their fries are equally legendary. Thick-cut, perfectly crisp, and seasoned just right. Think classic diner fries done to perfection.
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Au Cheval: While their burgers steal the show, don't overlook their fries. They're thick-cut, golden brown, and irresistibly crispy. A true classic that stands the test of time.
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RPM Italian: While offering a more upscale experience, their parmesan truffle fries are a decadent treat. The truffle oil elevates the classic fry to a gourmet experience.
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Monteverde: Their simple, perfectly-executed fries are a testament to the power of quality ingredients and simple preparation. A delicious example of less-is-more.
Gourmet & Elevated
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Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard’s creative genius extends to her fries. Expect unique flavor combinations and unexpected twists on a classic. Always a surprise, always delicious.
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Formento's: Their truffle parmesan fries are a luxurious indulgence. The richness of the truffle oil complements the crispy potatoes beautifully.
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Swift & Sons: Their upscale take on fries frequently features seasonal ingredients and unique preparations. Expect innovative and delicious flavor profiles.
Unique & Unexpected
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Beatrix: Their sweet potato fries are a sweet and savory delight, offering a welcome alternative to the classic russet fry.
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Public House: Their waffle fries offer a fun and unique texture, providing a satisfyingly different fry experience.
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Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: Their steak fries are thick, hearty, and perfectly complement their upscale steakhouse menu.
Casual & Convenient
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Stan's Donuts: While known for their donuts, their fries are a surprisingly good accompaniment to your sugary treat.
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Pequod's Pizza: A Chicago staple, their fries offer a delicious and easy addition to your pizza order.
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The Purple Pig: While Mediterranean-focused, their fries are a worthy addition to their eclectic menu.
Hidden Gems
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Honey Butter Fried Chicken: While the chicken takes center stage, their fries are crispy and delicious. A great side to a phenomenal meal.
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Little Goat: Stephanie Izard’s other gem offers a creative and delicious fry experience. Expect innovative and flavorful combinations.
Beyond the Fry: Considerations for Your West Loop Fry Adventure
Your choice of fries should be influenced by the overall dining experience you're seeking. Do you crave a casual bite or a gourmet experience? Consider the ambiance, the price point, and the overall menu when making your selection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes the West Loop's fries so special?
A: The concentration of high-quality restaurants, chefs, and a focus on fresh ingredients makes the West Loop a haven for excellent fries, ranging from classic to innovative creations.
Q: Are there vegetarian/vegan fry options?
A: Many restaurants offer fries that are naturally vegetarian. Always check menus for specific vegan options and to ensure there's no cross-contamination.
Q: How can I find the best fries for my taste?
A: This guide provides a comprehensive overview. Consider the style of fry (thick-cut, shoestring, etc.), seasoning, and the overall dining experience you’re looking for to choose your perfect match.
The West Loop offers a diverse selection of incredible French fries. Use this guide as your map to discovering your next favorite crispy treat. Happy frying!
